Asthma is a long-term condition that affects 1 in 9 Australians. While there is currently no cure, most people with asthma can lead full, active lives with good management and support. Sadly, more than 400 Australians die from asthma each year, many from preventable flare-ups. 

What is asthma? 

Asthma causes your airways to become inflamed, swollen, or filled with mucus when triggered, making it harder to breathe. You may feel like you’re breathing through a straw or narrow tube. 

Common airway changes during an asthma episode include: 

  • Swelling and thickening of the airway walls 
  • Excess mucus production 
  • Tightening of airway muscles 

Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary depending on the person and the trigger. 

Understanding your asthma type 

Identifying your asthma type helps your GP tailor your most effective asthma management plan. Types of asthma include: 

  • Allergic asthma (pollen, dust, mould, food) 
  • Non-allergic asthma 
  • Exercise-induced asthma 
  • Thunderstorm or seasonal asthma 
  • Occupational asthma (workplace triggers) 
  • Aspirin-exacerbated asthma 
  • Childhood or adult-onset asthma 
  • Nocturnal asthma 
  • Mild asthma (few symptoms, no flare-ups) 
  • Severe asthma (persistent symptoms despite maximum treatment) 

How Kardinia Health can help with asthma management 

Managing asthma may feel overwhelming at times, but with the right support and strategies, you can take control of your symptoms. At Kardinia Health, we offer comprehensive asthma management services, including spirometry testing. This diagnostic tool is invaluable for initially diagnosing and monitoring conditions like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Our team of GPs are here to help you stay on top of your asthma with practical, evidence-based care.  

Here are the six recommended key steps to managing your asthma:   

Regular asthma reviews
Book an asthma check-up with your GP every 6-12 months or more often if your treatment changes or you experience flare-ups.

Get a written Asthma Action Plan 
An Asthma Action Plan outlines the steps for managing your asthma daily and what to do in a flare-up.   

Take your preventer daily 
Preventers reduce inflammation and lower the chance of future symptoms.  

Monitor your asthma control 
Track symptoms regularly and discuss changes with your GP. Triggers like pollen, cold weather, and viruses can make symptoms worse.  

Use a spacer and check inhaler technique 
Using a spacer with puffers helps medicine reach your lungs effectively. Your GP or pharmacist can check your technique.  

Learn asthma first aid 
Knowing what to do in an emergency could save a life. Keep updated asthma first aid instructions at home and work. 

Book your asthma assessment or review at our Geelong medical clinic 

Our team of GPs are here to support you with personalised asthma management and care. 

To make an appointment, contact Kardinia Health Medical Centre on (03) 52029333  or book online here.  

Asthma Management geelong medical clinic